The rise to stardom is never a solo journey. It’s an intricate dance of intense training, innate talent, and, most crucially, unwavering guidance. Carlos Alcaraz, the young Spanish sensation, knows this better than anyone as he gears up to etch his name brightly in the annals of tennis history at the Paris Olympics. As Alcaraz prepares for his mega clash, the significance of having his long-time coach and mentor, Juan Carlos Ferrero, by his side cannot be overstated. But the big question on everyone’s mind is: Will Ferrero be there to support Alcaraz in this pivotal moment?

Alcaraz is set to face Novak Djokovic in the rematch of the Wimbledon finals at the Paris Olympics on Sunday. But with the high stakes that the match involves, the Spaniard must be relying on some additional support ahead of the match. And who could be better than his long-time coach and mentor, Ferrero?

As per the reports emerging from Spain, Ferrero is all set to reunite with his mentee at court Philippe Chatrier ahead of the showdown. The sensational coach has traveled to Paris on Saturday to be with his mentee, per the Spanish Media outlet Marca, on August 2nd. This would mean that the tennis community can once again witness Alcaraz looking up to his box on Sunday to gain some insights, provided he fails to decode the challenge that Djokovic poses ahead of him. Remember, Ferrero was not seen with Alcaraz throughout his campaign in Paris. 

For the unversed, the Velancian coach decided not to travel with Alcaraz to Paris and desired to spend some time at his academy. However, he had promised to join his mentee if he reached the big stages of the game, and with the Spaniard set to play his first Olympics final, Ferrero seems to abide by his words. The 44-year-old was last spotted in Alcaraz’s box when the star player handed a baffling defeat to Djokovic in the finals. In Ferrero’s absence, Alcaraz received assistance from several other people.

To support the 21-year-old, his manager Albert Molina traveled with him to Paris. He was also trained and guided by Spain’s national coach David Ferrer. Besides, his partnership with Rafael Nadal further helped him shine at the Olympics, where he did not lose even one set in the men’s singles. Meanwhile, Ferrero’s presence would mean more discipline for Alcaraz in the finals. 

In a recent interview with Relevo, Alcaraz highlighted the strict demeanor of his coach. “He is tough. He is a very serious person when he has to be, when it comes to work and discipline, he is very hard on you.” However, he shared that the tough taskmaster knows how to calm things down as well.  “But he is also very, very funny when he has to be. He knows how to differentiate the moments very well.” But despite his high regard for his coach, Alcaraz is uncertain about their future together. 

When Alcaraz raised speculations about his partnership with Ferrero

Ferrero has been training the Spanish sensation ever since the latter was 15. He has not just witnessed Alcaraz polishing his skills, but has had a front seat to all the progress Alcaraz has made, going up the ranks and winning big. Despite this, Alcaraz revealed the uncertainty that revolves around their partnership.

When quizzed if the four-time Grand Slam winner can imagine his career without his coach, he gave a mixed response to Relevo. “Well, a person’s career is very long, anything can happen at a tennis level and at a personal level, both for me and for Juan Carlos.” However, he affirmed his admiration for Ferrero. “Personally, I would love, thinking about it now, to spend my entire career with him.”

As tennis in the Paris Olympics draws close on Sunday, it would be fascinating to see if Ferrero keeps his promise intact and shows up for the game of his mentee. Can Alcaraz benefit from his presence? That remains to be seen.